Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation, this dish can be ready for baking in just 10 minutes.
- One-Dish Meal: Everything is cooked in one baking dish, simplifying cleanup.
- Family-Friendly: The rich, cheesy flavors are sure to be a hit with both adults and children.
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Each serving is low in carbohydrates, fitting well into low-carb and ketogenic dietary plans.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, pressed garlic, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts flat in a large baking dish. If the breasts are thick, consider slicing them in half to ensure even cooking.
- Apply the Cheese Mixture: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for 25-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or tenderloins. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Herb Enhancements: Incorporate herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme into the cheese mixture for added flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a spicy variation.
- Vegetable Addition: Include vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers in the baking dish to make it a more complete meal.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Place cooled chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to one month.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
This dish pairs well with low-carb sides like mashed cauliflower, sautéed spinach, or a fresh green salad. For those not restricting carbs, pasta or rice are excellent options.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I prevent the cheese topping from becoming too brown?
If the cheese begins to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil during baking.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While convenient, pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. For best results, shred cheese from a block.
Is it normal for the dish to have liquid after baking?
Yes, chicken releases juices during cooking. To minimize excess liquid, avoid overcrowding the baking dish and use high-quality chicken without added solutions.
How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can enhance the dish’s nutritional profile and flavor.
What type of Parmesan cheese is best?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended for optimal flavor and melting properties.
Can I use low-fat dairy products?
Using low-fat versions of cream cheese or sour cream may alter the dish’s creaminess and flavor. Full-fat versions are recommended for best results.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Ensure not to overbake the chicken. Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness can help maintain juiciness.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a versatile and delectable dish that’s simple to prepare and sure to satisfy. Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply seeking a delicious meal, this recipe is a must-try
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken (Low-Carb & Keto)
- Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a keto-friendly, low-carb recipe featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This one-dish meal is quick to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, pressed garlic, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts flat in a large baking dish. If the breasts are thick, slice them in half to ensure even cooking.
- Apply the Cheese Mixture: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For variations, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the cheese mixture.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to a month.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
